College of the North Atlantic (CNA) students made five trips to the podium at the 2017 Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC) in Winnipeg, Manitoba last weekend.

The event, held from May 31 – June 3, had over 550 competitors from all 10 provinces and three territories compete in more than 40 competition areas including: employability, construction, information technology, manufacturing, service and transportation sectors. Twenty-two of the 26 post-secondary students, of the 49-person Team Newfoundland and Labrador, were from CNA.

CNA Interim President and CEO, Elizabeth Kidd, says the quality of training that CNA students receive, combined with their eagerness to learn their field of study, is what leads them to success on the provincial and national stage.

“Each one of our students has shown an exceptional commitment to their programs of study throughout the Skills Canada competitions this year, and it’s encouraging to see them put in the extra hours of study and preparation in order to excel at the national level,” said Ms. Kidd. “Of course, the dedication of our staff and faculty members who worked with them along the way can’t be overlooked – they provide a strong support network to each of our students and should be equally as proud of these achievements.”

CNA medal winners will now be presented with awards for their achievements. The bronze medalist will receive $500, the silver medalist will receive $750 and the gold medalists will receive $1,000. This is the second year of a CNA awards program that acknowledges and celebrates the significance and importance of the student’s achievements.

The SCNC is the only national, multi-trade and technology competition for students and apprentices in the country. By providing a forum where Canadian youth can compete against each another at the national level, SCNC provides hands-on work experience related to skilled trades and technology careers. Through these competitions, Skills Canada also seeks to raise awareness about skilled trades and technology sectors to all Canadian youth and their influencers.

“Seeing our students compete on the national stage was a proud experience for everyone involved,” said CNA’s Dean of Industrial Trades, Chris Patey. “Despite the sheer size and scope of the event the students were able to focus on the task at hand and bring their ‘A’ game throughout the competition. I’m extremely proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing great things from them in the years to come.”